Margaret Palmer Nelson

She was born, Margaret Clare Palmer, on September 12, 1918, to William & Myra Palmer in Independence, MO. She was the second daughter in this loving, happy family. Frances & Myra lost their beloved mother and baby in childbirth when Margaret was two. Their father, William Palmer raised his daughters in Independence.

As an adult, she began working at Folger’s Coffee Company in downtown Kansas City. During this time, she met her future husband, Alfred J. Nelson, Jr. The couple was married in the rectory of St. Elizabeth’s Church. They settled in North Kansas City, MO, where they raised their two daughters.

She began her long- term work at the Niewald, Risjord & Waldeck Firm where she was a secretary/receptionist for 30+ years. Margaret had a strong work ethic and enjoyed her job very much. She was the strong support in our family and kept us afloat through rough times.

Margaret was a beautiful lady, full of joy and laughter. Her gentle, magnetic personality spread sunshine to everyone she met. Her family knows and remembers her as the “sparkle” that energized and inspired us all to pursue our dreams. A loving, active mother and Grami that was our role model. She was a delicate flower that filled her environment with grace and beauty.

Margaret was also very independent & self-fulfilled. She pursued many personal interests throughout her life and believed in keeping your body and mind fit. Therefore, she entered a court reporter school. American History and the Bible were specific interests to study. She also felt it was important to be healthy and physically fit. She worked in her yard unceasingly, made homemade bread, and focused on healthy eating, and taking vitamins. She also loved to swim and had a great breaststroke. Margaret also had a deep, rich faith which she expressed in her church where she was a member of the choir for many years.

Her main passion was ballroom dancing which she pursued with much fervor. Margaret always loved musicals and would sing and dance with her daughter to the record player. So, in her older years, she began ballroom dance lessons, learning various styles, her favorite one being the Strauss Waltz, which she performed joyfully for many years at the American Ballroom Dance Club.

Margaret lived a full, rich life, surrounded by a family that adored her. They are: Diana Smith, daughter and children: David, Nathan, Aaron & Devri (who is in Heaven). Grandchildren: Patrick, Sarah, Francesca, Charlotte, Oskar & Conan. Deborah Isenberg, daughter and her son Zachary.

Forever in our hearts, Mom and Grami